House of Maher: Episode Summary – "Reuniting with Alan Bersten"

Hosted by Wave Originals and presented by Samsung Galaxy, "House of Maher" brings together the dynamic sister trio—Olympic rugby player Ilona Maher, "Girl Dinner" creator Olivia Maher, and human rights advocate Adrianna “Dre Baby” Maher. In the April 15, 2025 episode titled "Reuniting with Alan Bersten," the sisters reconnect with Adrianna’s longtime friend and dance coach, Alan Burson. This episode delves into their experiences on "Dancing with the Stars," the complexities of their relationships, and personal growth both on and off the dance floor.

1. Welcoming Alan Burson

The episode kicks off with a warm introduction of their guest, Alan Burson, who is not only Adrianna's dance coach but also a seasoned dancer himself.

• Adriana Mar [01:00]: "I am very, very excited to introduce our first ever guest, my good friend, my dance coach, dance partner, Alan Burson."

Alan playfully acknowledges his connection with Ilona and Olivia, setting a lighthearted tone for the conversation.

• Alan Burson [00:48]: "Look, you can do it in your sleep."

2. Travel Adventures: From the Airport to Germany

The sisters recount their recent travels, highlighting contrasting experiences from casual dining to professional engagements.

• Adriana Mar [02:05]: "We finally got first Ilona. We did it."
• Olivia Mar [02:06]: "Wow."

They share amusing anecdotes about their stops at Chili’s and Courage Bagels in Los Angeles, emphasizing their different tastes and the support Alan provided during their travels.

• Adriana Mar [03:39]: "You had been dreaming bagels for weeks."

Additionally, the episode touches on Adrianna’s visit to Adidas headquarters in Germany, where she met notable personalities like Michaela Shiffrin.

• Adriana Mar [03:27]: "It was like, that was so cool to meet a legend like that."

3. Experiences in the Sauna

A humorous segment unfolds as Adrianna and Alan discuss their intense sauna sessions, highlighting cultural differences and personal preferences.

• Adriana Mar [04:13]: "The sauna in Germany is naked. So I was like got in there. I'm like, that guy might be naked."

Their banter about enduring extreme sauna temperatures showcases their camaraderie and ability to find humor in challenging situations.

• Olivia Mar [04:46]: "It feels good."

4. Dancing with the Stars Partnership

The core of the episode focuses on Adrianna’s journey on "Dancing with the Stars" alongside Alan. They delve into the initial apprehensions, the learning curve, and the evolution of their dance partnership.

• Olivia Mar [08:04]: "You never gave up. You always tried really hard."
• Adriana Mar [17:53]: "What do you want to be with anyone else?"

Adrianna reflects on her struggle to adapt from a rugby mindset to the structured routines of dance, emphasizing the mental challenges over physical.

• Adriana Mar [17:35]: "It was mostly the mental thing for me because physically everyone's like, is it tough?"

5. Building Friendship and Trust

The sisters highlight the unique friendship that developed between Adrianna and Alan, underscoring the importance of mutual support and understanding in high-pressure environments.

• Olivia Mar [16:16]: "We became friends. We went rest, we went to eat all the time."
• Adriana Mar [46:21]: "We built a really beautiful friendship."

They discuss how this bond helped Adrianna navigate the show's stresses, fostering a supportive atmosphere that transcended the typical coach-dancer relationship.

• Olivia Mar [22:50]: "You really stand out is how genuine and vulnerable you are."

6. Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Success

Adrianna and Alan reminisce about memorable dances, mishaps, and breakthroughs on the dance floor, illustrating their growth and the joy of their accomplishments.

• Adriana Mar [32:02]: "Rumba's a great love. Why so?"
• Olivia Mar [34:03]: "We slayed that week for sure."

Highlights include the triumph of performing complex routines like the rumba and the emotional milestones that solidified their partnership.

• Adriana Mar [33:55]: "You were like, you did)
• Olivia Mar [37:55]: "You were really good in the week."

7. Body Image and Mental Well-being

A poignant discussion emerges around body image issues, mental health, and self-acceptance, particularly in the context of athletic and dance performances.

• Olivia Mar [54:34]: "Body dysmorphia is a thing. ... I've learned to love myself a lot more."
• Adriana Mar [54:27]: "Testing my body in a different way."

Both sisters candidly share their struggles and triumphs in embracing their bodies, emphasizing the importance of self-love over societal standards.

8. Future Endeavors and Closing Thoughts

As the episode nears its end, the sisters and Alan ponder future projects, potential collaborations, and the enduring strength of their relationships.

• Olivia Mar [60:05]: "I'm telling you, if you want to ..."
• Adriana Mar [61:22]: "I think we try things."

They express enthusiasm for upcoming tours, shows, and continued personal growth, reinforcing the episode’s themes of resilience, friendship, and self-improvement.

• Alan Burson [67:00]: "See you next time. Not you probably, though."

Notable Quotes:

• Adriana Mar [00:00]: "Honestly, that made my time on the show so good because I was afraid of, like, what if I don't like my partner?"
• Olivia Mar [24:27]: "Just fighters have a sound."
• Adriana Mar [33:42]: "I wanted to feel very beautiful because..."

Conclusion

"Reuniting with Alan Bersten" offers listeners an intimate glimpse into the Maher sisters' lives, their unbreakable bonds, and the transformative journey of dance and self-discovery. Through laughter, vulnerability, and unwavering support, the episode encapsulates the essence of "House of Maher" — a sanctuary where family, friends, and personal growth intersect seamlessly.

For more insights, behind-the-scenes content, and future episodes, follow "House of Maher" on social media and subscribe on your preferred podcast platform.